✅ Quick Answer: When is the Khareef Festival in Salalah?
2026 Dates: Expected late June – mid-September (exact dates TBA). Highlights: Live concerts, cultural shows, food markets, kids’ zone & fireworks. Most events are free; book VIP tickets early. See full event calendar ↓
Khareef is not just weather — it’s a cultural season. Salalah comes alive with festivals, performances, and markets. This page updates as 2026 programme is announced.
Salalah Tourism Festival
Biggest event, Ittin Road. Mid-July through end of August. 2025: 15 Jul–31 Aug; 2026 expected similar. UNESCO Al-Bar’ah dance, cultural village, food stalls, carnival rides, handicraft market, evening entertainment. Free entry. Rides OMR 1–2. Food OMR 3–5. Most atmospheric from 5 PM.
Don’t miss: Women’s cooking pavilion. Village women cook traditional Dhofari dishes. Most authentic food of the season.
| Event Type | Typical Schedule | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opening Ceremony | Late June, evening | Free | Families, cultural experience, photos |
| Live Concerts | Weekends, 8-11 PM | Free-10 | Music lovers, evening entertainment |
| Cultural Shows | Daily, 6-9 PM | Free | Learning Omani traditions, all ages |
| Food & Craft Markets | Daily, 4 PM-midnight | Free entry | Shopping, local cuisine, souvenirs |
| Fireworks Finale | Mid-September, evening | Free | Spectacular views, family celebration |
*Exact 2026 schedule announced by Salalah Tourism Authority ~1 month before Khareef start.
Hotel Events
Anantara themed dinners and workshops. Rotana/Crowne Plaza Khareef packages with events. Fanar family activities. Check reception — programmes published weekly.
Markets & Shopping
Al Husn Souq — extra vibrant during Khareef. Hojari frankincense, silver, perfumes, honey. Salalah Gardens Mall and Safari Hypermarket for essentials.
- Arrive early (5-6 PM) for popular events – seating fills fast
- Bring layers – evenings get cool (18-22°C) during Khareef
- Download the official Khareef Festival app for real-time schedule updates
- Use ride-hailing apps (Otaxi) for easy transport to/from festival grounds
- Carry cash for food stalls & crafts – not all vendors accept cards
Confirmed for 2026
As of April 2026, official dates not announced. Expected mid-July to late August. Oman Air Dubai–Salalah launches 3 July 2026. Will update with confirmed dates.
This page will be updated with confirmed 2026 event dates. Check back May/June 2026.
Ready to plan your trip? See our Salalah Khareef pages:
What is Khareef
Best time to visit Salalah
Things to Do in Salalah
Where to Stay in Salalah
Best Restaurants in Salalah
Muscat to Salalah by road
Salalah with Kids
Khareef on a Budget
Salalah Khareef Packing List